The Benefits After 40, 50 & 60

By: August McLaughlin

If every day is a gift, aging means getting presents all the time. While growing older can bring challenges, in your 40s, 50s, and beyond, you’ll also find perks – all of which can benefit you and your relationship. Do your best to maintain a positive attitude, keeping in mind that if you embrace aging, it's more likely to be good to you.

Increased Happiness

For a lot of people, happiness increases over time. Gone are the insecurities of youth as you approach middle age, making way for more enjoyment. You may also find that you have more time to nurture your relationship – especially if you're retired or maybe just because your kids are now independent. If you're still waiting for retirement, perhaps you have a career that you love and are looking forward to your golden years.

Strengthened Intimacy

Desire for intimacy never fades. Some women find that lovemaking becomes more pleasurable with age – which may be due to knowing your body better, greater comfort with your sexuality, and your gained experience. Once you go through menopause, you may also feel freer in the bedroom, knowing that pregnancy is no longer a possibility. However, if you've noticed that hormonal shifts are causing vaginal dryness, a quality lubricant can really help. Remember that sensual satisfaction is linked with a higher quality of life.

Fewer Headaches

While headaches are fairly common in younger women, you may be able to bid them goodbye later on. Most migraines start around age 20 and dissipate, on average, within 25 years. You may also experience less sudden severe headaches as you age, along with fewer related symptoms such as nausea and sensitivity to light. If you experienced headaches related to menstruation, those will end with menopause.

Feeling Younger

The number of candles on your birthday cakes may increase, but you're likely to feel a lot younger than you are. Research conducted by the Pew Research Center showed that while younger people felt their chronological ages, older people (age 65 and up) actually felt 10 to 19 years younger than their ages. Feeling younger can be a huge attribute. It often means you have the same energy and zest for life you did in your early years. Use that zest to age beautifully, cherishing your life, your wisdom, and your relationship. Enjoy and appreciate the good times.

About the Author

August McLaughlin is a health and sexuality writer and certified nutritionist in Los Angeles. Her work is featured in numerous magazines including "Healthy Aging," "CitySmart," "DAME" and IAmThatGirl. She holds specializations in eating disorders, healthy weight management and sports nutrition and loves connecting with readers and writers via her blog, Facebook, and Twitter.